Memory Improvement Tips

Association - Use a word or picture to make an association between something you already know and the new information. Or think about the meaning to you and your desire to remember, or associate a story that will connect things you want to do.

Visualization - A visual image, which is associated with a very familiar object, can help remember things you need to do.

Self Talk - Ask yourself questions. Repeat to yourself your idea or things you need to say or do.

Lists and Reminders - Make a list or use symbolic reminders to help remember.

Change the Environment - Things can help you remember. For instance, put a string on the front door to remind you to do something before you go out. Move a trash basket near the door to remind you of the day to take trash out.

Organization - Organize your thoughts into categories or chunks. For instance, a phone number 8162525051 can be categorized into 3 groups 816-252-5051.

Attention - Sometimes we don't pay attention, which can cause our memory to slip away even when our memory ability is just fine. Paying attention - stop, look, and listen - can help save time and frustration.

Nina Chen, ChenN@missouri.edu
Regional Specialist, Human Development
Jackson County, Missouri
University of Missouri Extension